Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) is naltrexone (an opioid antagonist) used at sub-therapeutic doses, far below the 50 mg dose prescribed for opioid or alcohol dependence. At low doses, transient opioid receptor blockade triggers a compensatory increase in the body's own endorphin production and modulates T-regulatory cell activity, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alpha and IL-6.1 This immune-modulating effect has been studied in chronic inflammatory conditions including multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia.21 In RRM, LDN is considered by some clinicians as an adjunct in patients with suspected immune-mediated implantation failure, clinical endorphin deficiency, or endometriosis-associated immune dysregulation. Its use for these indications is off-label. Clinicians considering LDN should evaluate the individual patient's immune profile and reproductive history. No specific dosing protocol is published here; consult an RRM clinician.
Cited in this entry
- Low-dose naltrexone for the treatment of fibromyalgia: findings of a small, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, counterbalanced, crossover trial assessing daily pain levels. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23359310/
- Pilot trial of low-dose naltrexone and quality of life in multiple sclerosis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20695007/
Discussed in
Research library
- Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)-Review of Therapeutic Utilization
- Low-Dose Naltrexone as an Adjuvant in Combined Anticancer Therapy
- Low dose naltrexone for induction of remission in Crohn's disease
- Systemic administration of low-dose naltrexone increases bone mass due to blockade of opioid growth factor receptor signaling in mice osteoblasts
- Low Dose Naltrexone in Pregnancy
This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult an RRM clinician or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.